Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley first in Australia with Mobile Key in a Guest Services App

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley has delivered a first in Australia with the launch of a ground-breaking guest mobile platform that will transform the guest experience.

The innovative Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley app will enable guests to access their rooms from the convenience of their smartphone, as well as being an easy-access hub of information regarding the Resort and the Hunter region, and a communication channel between the resort and guests.

Mobile keys are digitally generated by hotel staff and, once created, guests simply need to open the app and wave their smartphone in front of the door for keyless entry.

“We are thrilled to be embracing this cutting-edge technology.” saidLachlan Walker, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. “We’re deeply honoured to be chosen to lead the charge within the Schwartz Family Company (SFC) portfolio, and the broader Australian hotel community.”

“The hospitality industry has shown tremendous growth in technologies aimed at enhancing the guest experience. Recent studies have shown that over 64% of travellers want engagement with their hotels via mobile devices including the ability to use their device as a room key. We are meeting our guests’ needs in the way that matters most to them.”

The technology will bring added benefits to staff and management at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, such as improving efficiencies at the concierge, easing check-in queues at peak times, and reducing plastic and paper usage, which is in line with SFC’s historical commitment to sustainability and the environment.

“I have a passion about using technology to benefit travellers,” saidDr Jerry Schwartz, Director of the Schwartz Family Company. “Technology is now an increasingly important component in travel and I’m aiming to establish my NSW hotels as technology leaders, ensuring that travellers make the most of their precious holiday time.”

“The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most celebrated tourist destinations. I have always been passionate about promoting the region, so investing in revolutionary technology will be yet another drawcard for Hunter Valley. As we continue to experience a strong influx of both local and overseas guests, there is no reason we shouldn’t provide a state-of-the-art guest experience, even in a regional location,”

The award-winning hotel, owned by Schwartz Family Group and managed by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®), is the first hotel in Australasia to implement this technology.